Air Fryer Magic: Barber Foods Chicken Cordon Bleu

Chicken cordon bleu is a classic French dish that is traditionally made with ham slices and Swiss cheese rolled up inside a pounded chicken breast and then topped with breadcrumbs or fried until golden. It can also be made with Gruyere cheese and is usually deep-fried, but using an air fryer means you can get the same result while using less oil.

You can make chicken cordon bleu from scratch, but it is also available pre-made and frozen from brands like Barber Foods. These frozen varieties can be cooked in an air fryer in under 30 minutes, making them a quick and easy option for a weeknight dinner. Simply place the frozen chicken cordon bleu in the air fryer basket, set the temperature to between 370-400°F and cook for 15-20 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.

Some people have noted that the Barber Foods box says do not air fry, but this is likely due to liability concerns and many people have successfully cooked the product in an air fryer. As long as you ensure the chicken reaches a safe internal temperature, it is safe to eat.

How to cook Barber Foods Chicken Cordon Bleu in an air fryer

Ingredients:

• Barber Foods Chicken Cordon Bleu (frozen)
• Meat thermometer
• Oil mister (optional)
• Parchment paper (optional)

Method:

• Preheat your air fryer to 380 degrees Fahrenheit.
• Place your frozen chicken cordon bleu in the air fryer basket, ensuring they are in a single layer with space between each piece. You can cook between 2-4 at a time, depending on the size of your air fryer.
• Cook for 18-20 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165 degrees Fahrenheit. You can use a meat thermometer to check this.
• Allow the chicken to rest for a few minutes before serving.

Tips:

• There is no need to spray the chicken with oil before cooking, as the breading already contains oil.
• Some cheese may ooze out during cooking, but this is fine and will not affect the taste.
• Always allow your chicken cordon bleu to rest before slicing into it, to keep the meat tender and juicy.
• If you are reheating leftovers, cook at 350 degrees Fahrenheit for 4-5 minutes, or until warmed through.

Serving suggestions:

• Air Fryer Glazed Carrots
• Air Fryer Broccoli Cheese Twice Baked Potato
• Air Fryer Green Beans
• Air Fryer Sweet Potato Fries
• Air Fryer Ranch Potatoes
• Air Fryer Garlic Bread

How to store leftover Chicken Cordon Bleu

To store leftover Chicken Cordon Bleu, use an airtight container and place it in the refrigerator. It should be consumed within three to four days. If you want to freeze it, place the cooked and cooled rolls on a parchment-lined baking sheet, freeze for 2 hours, and then transfer to a freezer bag. It will stay good for up to four months.

To reheat the Chicken Cordon Bleu, you can use an air fryer or an oven. For the air fryer, preheat it to 350 degrees F and place the leftovers inside for 4 to 5 minutes. For the oven, reheat at 350 degrees F for about 10 minutes to avoid sogginess.

How to reheat Chicken Cordon Bleu in an air fryer

Chicken cordon bleu is a classic French dish that is traditionally made with ham slices and Swiss cheese rolled up inside a pounded chicken breast and then topped with breadcrumbs or fried until golden. Reheating chicken cordon bleu in an air fryer is a quick and easy way to enjoy this delicious meal again. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to do it:

Step 1: Preheat the Air Fryer

Preheat your air fryer to 350-380 degrees Fahrenheit. This is an important step as it ensures that your chicken cordon bleu will be heated evenly.

Step 2: Place the Chicken Cordon Bleu in the Air Fryer

Place your leftover chicken cordon bleu in the air fryer basket, making sure that they are not overlapping and that there is enough space for the air to flow around them. You can cook multiple pieces at once, but be sure to leave enough space between them.

Step 3: Air Fry for 4-8 Minutes

Cook the chicken cordon bleu for 4 to 8 minutes, or until it is warmed through. The exact time will depend on the size and number of pieces you are reheating, so keep an eye on them to ensure they don't overcook.

Step 4: Check the Internal Temperature

Use an instant-read thermometer to check the internal temperature of the chicken cordon bleu. It should reach 165 degrees Fahrenheit to be considered safe to eat.

Step 5: Remove from the Air Fryer and Serve

Once your chicken cordon bleu is heated through, remove it from the air fryer and serve it immediately. Enjoy your delicious and crispy meal!

Reheating chicken cordon bleu in an air fryer is a convenient way to enjoy this tasty dish again. By following these simple steps, you can have a warm and crispy chicken cordon bleu in no time!

What to serve with Chicken Cordon Bleu

Chicken Cordon Bleu is a rich and indulgent dish, so it's best to serve it with something that will balance out the meal. Here are some ideas for what to serve with Chicken Cordon Bleu:

Starch

• Mashed potatoes
• Rice (garlic butter rice, lemon dill rice)
• Pasta (macaroni and cheese, orzo)
• Bread (Italian bread, yeast rolls, biscuits)

Vegetables

• Green beans (balsamic-glazed, almondine)
• Broccoli (or broccolini)
• Asparagus (in lemon butter sauce)
• Brussels sprouts (especially roasted or maple bacon)
• Carrots (especially baby carrots or air fryer carrot fries)
• Zucchini (especially zucchini fries)
• French fries
• Baked sweet potatoes

Salads

• Spinach salad with pears
• Tomato basil salad
• Kale and fennel salad with almond and cranberry
• Spring mix apple raspberry salad
• Chick-fil-A kale crunch salad
• Taziki's tomato cucumber salad
• Olive Garden signature salad
• KFC coleslaw

Sauces

• Dijon mustard
• Gravy

Why cook Chicken Cordon Bleu in an air fryer

Chicken cordon bleu is a classic French dish that is usually deep-fried. However, cooking it in an air fryer has several advantages.

Firstly, it is a quick and easy way to prepare a delicious meal with minimal preparation and fuss. You can go from frozen to a tasty, crispy, and tender dish in less than 30 minutes, which is perfect for busy weeknights or when you're short on time. It is also a beginner-friendly recipe, as it requires very little effort to achieve impressive results.

Secondly, air frying produces a deliciously crispy and golden brown outer crust, thanks to the hot air circulating around the food. This method also ensures that the stuffed chicken breast is cooked evenly, resulting in melty cheese and tender meat. The breaded layer gets perfectly golden, just like deep-frying, but with less oil, making it a healthier option.

Additionally, air frying offers more control over the cooking process. By using an instant-read thermometer, you can ensure that the chicken is cooked to the recommended internal temperature of 165°F, eliminating the risk of undercooking or overcooking. This is especially important when cooking raw chicken, as specified on some frozen cordon bleu packages.

Lastly, air fryers are versatile and convenient. You can cook chicken cordon bleu straight from frozen without thawing, and pair it with a variety of side dishes, from roasted vegetables to potatoes and salads.

In summary, cooking chicken cordon bleu in an air fryer is a fast, easy, and healthy way to enjoy a sophisticated and comforting meal. It requires minimal prep, results in a crispy and tender dish, and allows for customizable sides to suit your preferences.

Frequently asked questions